In A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness, the term "spellbound" carries both literal and metaphorical meanings. The novel is steeped in the themes of magic, witchcraft, and the intricate relationships between witches, vampires, and daemons.
Literal Meaning:
In a literal sense, being "spellbound" refers to the enchantment or magical influence exerted by a spell. Characters in the book often experience magical phenomena that are deeply tied to their identities and powers as supernatural beings. The word suggests being captivated or entranced by magic, where a spell is capable of compelling someone’s thoughts, actions, or feelings.
Metaphorical Meaning:
Metaphorically, "spellbound" can represent the intense emotional and psychological attraction between the main characters, Diana Bishop, a witch, and Matthew Clairmont, a vampire. Their connection is profound and almost intoxicating, suggesting that they are under each other’s spell in a more emotional and romantic sense. This feeling of being spellbound reflects themes of love, desire, and forbidden attraction, especially considering the historical enmities between their species.
Overall, in A Discovery of Witches, "spellbound" encapsulates the interplay between magic and personal relationships, illustrating how enchantment can manifest not only through supernatural forces but also through the bonds of love and desire between characters. The concept underlines the complexities of the characters’ interactions and the consequences of their intertwined fates in a world where magic and science coexist.